Clove Bud Essential Oil

Latin name Eugenia caryophyllata – Family species Myrtaceae

Alternate latin names are Syzygium aromaticum, Eugenia aromaticum, and Eugenia Caryophyllus. Two essential oils are produced from the clove tree, however only one (Clove Bud) is recommended to be used in aromatherapy applications. Clove leaf oil, from the leaves, stalks, and stems, is recommended not to be used in aromatherapy.

Andrew Chevallier, author of The Encyclopedia of Medicinal Plants, says that clove essential oil “is strongly anesthetic and antiseptic, and therefore useful in pain relief for toothache and as an antiseptic for many conditions.”

Oil Selection Guide

Color – Pale yellow
Viscosity – Watery to medium
Scent – Warm, rich, sweet, spicy, fresh
Perfume Aroma – Middle / base note

Oil Source Information

Plant Type – Tree
Part Used – Flower buds
Countries of Origin – Indonesia, Sri Lanka, Phillipines, Madagascar, Molucca Islands, Tanzania, West Indies
Extraction Method – Steam / water distillation

Known Chemical Constituents

eugenol, acetoeugenol, eugenyl acetate, caryophyllene, d-cadinene

Applications and Uses

Uses of clove oil include aromatherapy, and as an insect repellent to repel insects such as mosquitoes and moths. Clove oil can also be found in pharmaceutical and dental products for pain relief, as well as in soaps, perfumes, and commercial food and drinks.

Clove Bud Oil blends well with

Precautions / Contraindications

Warnings include not using clove oil on or around children under 12 years of age, and to use with care in moderation and in extremely low doses if at all.
Clove bud essential oil can cause irritation if used on skin.
It is stated to avoid mucous membranes and using in baths.
See also Essential Oils Safety and Usage.

References and Resources

See Aromatherapy References and Resources page.

Print article to PDF